AMRITSAR SAHIB, Punjab—Amid ongoing tension between India-Pakistan, the Indian government has refused to give clearance to more than 300 Sikh pilgrims to observe death anniversary of Sher-e-Punjab Maharaja Ranjit Singh in Lahore.
It notable here that the Sikh pilgrims observe death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in Lahore on June 21 every year in large numbers.
Speaking to Sikh24, SGPC Chief Secretary Harcharan Singh informed that the SGPC had sought permission from the Indian government for 300 Sikh pilgrims to observe death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in Lahore on June 21.
“No reason has been specified to us, all we know that none of the 300 will get visa clearance this year,” he said.
Chief Secretary Harcharan Singh further informed the Indian Government has probably denied visa due to safety concerns.
Samadhi (memorial) of Maharaja Ranjit Singh situated in Lahore, Pakistan, marks the place where his mortal remains were cremated. The central hall has a marble chhatri that once had carved marble knobs commemorating the Maharaja’s funeral pyre. These knobs were recently removed and are now locked in a storeroom.
Typical of the Indian Government ….. what’s their dispute with Pakistan go to do with Sikhs – we have all our gurdwaras there – next they will stop us from going there as well! clearly treating minorities especially Sikhs as third class citizens. Disgusting India.
Who cares for the rights and sentiments of minorities.